#miched Archive
The #michED chat is a grassroots effort dedicated to giving teachers, students, and parents across Michigan a bigger voice in the conversation about education in our state. We welcome all voices through a variety of projects, media, and social networking. We’re trying to address educational issues through apolitical conversation, spreading ideas and stories of success from Michigan classrooms across the state, and helping teachers and students regain the courage to connect and demonstrate that schools in Michigan are creating amazing opportunities for learning. We want the face and voice of education in Michigan to be a mural of shared experiences and positive examples of connected learning.
Wednesday February 24, 2016
Excited for my first chat! My name is Hannah Epstein and I am a U of M student teacher in Ann Arbor in a kindergarten classroom.
Joon, U of M School of Education, 3rd grade student teacher in Ypsi!
Hi ! U of M student teacher, 3rd grade
Michael Crawford. Metro Detroit. PhD Candidate in Educational Psychology. Chief Academic Officer at .
Chandler Brown second year secondary education and English Major
Matt McC Assistant Principal @ Onsted High School
Love seeing all the student teachers for Yeah!
Evenin' friends. Kit from Sarnia, ON - EdTech Supervisor for Port Huron Schools. Great topic tonight!
its a person is a costume.
Mike, second grade from Chelsea....waiting for the phone to ring....
Is anyone else loving all these new faces and student teachers?! This is AWESOME!! Wish I would have had during my student teaching
Love to see all the student teachers tonight !!
Good evening ! I am Trevor, a math and science tutor.
Michelle from Milford. Instructional Soecialist k-5
Hi , Joanne from MAISA General Ed Leadership Network.
Hey Mike! Good to see you. Gonna need your ideas tonight!
Hi Rachelle! I'm excited about both! This will be my first experience participating in a
Apropos that PBS is showing "Snow Chicks" tonight about penguins and their struggles to get home... sounds like today after work
Hi there Mary!! CEP 416 students are now required to pick a escheat
check out T-Rex Tuesday on YouTube
Lets get started!
Q1: What does “Giving Students Ownership of Learning” mean? Define it.
Haha. That's excellent. Great stuff, . Bravo.
Chandler Brown, sophomore with a secondary education and English Major at adrian college
Hi Julie. chats are great for student teachers like yourself. Your perspective is appreciated, so please share it.
Welcome to Glad you are joining us!
Lydia, U of M School of Education, Student Teacher in Kindergarten at Wines
Jim Ekdahl - German teacher from Macomb, MI - hello !
Welcome to Glad you could join us on this cold, winter night!
Good evening . I am Craig, ed tech consultant at Kent ISD in GR. Loving the snow tonight.
A1 Letting students move, at their pace and on their own path, from not knowing to knowing
Love seeing all the student teachers!
A1 Students have voice and choice in learning process - planning, deciding how to show learning evidence, self-assessment.
A1: As if we, as teachers, could have ever really "owned" the Ss learning. Ss have always owned it but we "ignore" it ;-)
A1: it means that they drive the topics explored, the means of exploration, the outcomes, and the evaluation of their learning.
Laura McDonell, East China schools
A1: Giving students opportunities to do cognitive work at school.
A1: A big part of student ownership is giving students options and a voice. It's a chance to give Ss power of choice, direction, etc
Agree! And in ways that interest them. There is no ONE way to learn and show learning.
Bill from Mattawan checking in
A1: In a nutshell…trust. Trust yourself as a teacher and trust that your students can do it.
A1: Content taught takes student interest into account and is differentiated to meet the needs of all learners in the classroom.
A1 Give them ownership so they can build real world skills, become lifelong learners - not learning just for a test
easy to say; tough to accomplish in a class setting
A1 - one of the ways is to assist students in setting their own goals for their education & integrating their interests into those.
Ben from Lansing here! 3rd grade
TOMORROW (Thursday at 8pm)
The 'Principals' of Planning
- All educators are welcome to join https://t.co/yRwk2ii7UF
A1 Ownership = Choice and the Opportunity to Create (learning, new knowledge, solution, or next question)
First time chatters - I will be tweeting out help tips. The Smore flier starts with chat protocols https://t.co/mJmd7pLeIw
Stephanie Ford - 5th Grade - Alfonac Schools
We tend to fall back on teaching the way we were taught.Gotta break that cycle if it isn’t what is right for kids.
Yes! I feel like a broken record about voice and choice lately for students, but it's just that important!
A1: Letting students take lead of their own learning, self-motivate to learn and succeed, self-evaluate.
A1 Choice in work space, topics, tools, products...by the way, just got that phone call!
A1: Ss participating and engaging because the lessons/skills matter to them, not because the teacher told them to do so
A1: Giving Ss a choice, letting them move faster or slower if needed, seeing them ask for what they need.
A1) choices about where to focus passionate learning. Voice about how to accomplish mastery of a standard.
A1 - The best learning takes place when a teacher is brave enough to let go of the control and let the kids go for it
"voice and choice"...well said.
Kit's going philosophical tonight. Love it! Can you imagine working with this genius? https://t.co/R6PSVPxkZ3
A1: As if we, as teachers, could have ever really "owned" the Ss learning. Ss have always owned it but we "ignore" it ;-)
A: Allowing Ss to have choice in their learning and delivery of growth. Reflection is also important
Steve from Detroit area math high school long time listener first time caller
A1: Making sure students leave the classroom with a true understanding of the topic,not just short term memorizing for tests
A1: Would love to ask students this question. Bet we'd get interesting responses.
A1: Students choices in learning and doing!
I love the “they drive”. Not the teacher, State or standards. We have to fight that a lot.
A1 Creating a roadmap for success and then giving autonomy to their learning
Yes. Student goal setting and conferring are great ways to help Ss "own" their learning more. https://t.co/SWQcU5PUhH
A1 - one of the ways is to assist students in setting their own goals for their education & integrating their interests into those.
Samantha Steffes secondary education math major at Adrian college
A1: it means recognizing that all true learning must be owned and personalized
A1: show them the way but let them find their path
A1: Curriculum defines where Ss need to go, THEY create the map on how to get there
Welcome to Steve - nice to have you here tonight.
Hey, peeps, sorry I'm late. :(
A1 personal standards has a large part to do with it. Standards of work.
A1) allowing students to self reflect and evaluate their progress helps them take ownership of their learning
A1: allowing students to create a product that demonstrates their mastery
A1: Having students stop an evaluate their own work, instead of teacher always evaluating it for them.
. It's obviously easier said than done. But learning takes a different, deeper form when it's self-determined
A1: Students know the target, but have choice in how they achieve it
we are all learners too. We love to hear your passion and great ideas!
A1) Trusting in your students and giving them choices in your classroom!
Happy snow day everyone. My name is CJ and I am a 4th grade teacher at Jonesville Elementary.
That is where the choice comes in. When Ss have choice they have voice and that gives them the feeling ownership.
Thanks! but I also know that when rubber meets the road this is easier said than done. cc:
A1: I like the idea of "Allowing" them to take ownership.
so much research on how voice & choice lead to higher intrinsic motivation, leading to self-directed lifelong learners
Do students get to direct and decide the target? It's not true choice if it's overly circumscribed.
A1: Students taking ownership in their learning and exploring the varied directions it can take them.
Late intro. Sorry. Jeff from Hamilton. 7th grade spec ed and co-teacher
A1 if you get 30 of the same thing at the end of the unit, Ss did not own the learning :)
Agree! You will get a lot more out of a Ss who was able to choose. There is a connection that is necessary when Ss choose.
A1: To empower them w/ confidence & allow them an active role in their education
Welcome to Glad you could make it!
It's "possible," but it's not ideal.
The chat can move quickly. will tweet question using "Q" &number. Respond with "A" & corresponding number. Don't forget
A1.2. It's about facilitating not bestowing.
trust is so important! I saw it make a huge difference this year when I told Ss I trusted them to make right choices
A1: Within the context of the objective, students need to have some choice on where specifically they go with hitting that obj
Moving on!
Q2: What prevents teachers and schools from giving their students ownership of their learning?
A1: Letting the students make choices and decisions about what they learn.
Yes. And they will get a lot more out of themselves when they own it... in the same way that we (adults) all do
couldn't have said it better...giving students autonomy and accountability so they develop that higher order thinking
A1: Ownership means possessing, having power over something. For students, that means having some control. https://t.co/YK18y9S2Fe
A2: Being afraid of not hitting the standards
A2: Being afraid of not hitting the standards
Good point! And yet that is exactly what we often seem to strive for. https://t.co/QMdyBv7RAw
A1 if you get 30 of the same thing at the end of the unit, Ss did not own the learning :)
Hey Christopher! Thanks for joining us. We are on Q2
If something is engaging and important to the student, learning always happens
A2 For a lot of Ts, there is a fear of giving up control in the classroom, esp with pressure from teacher evals
Great Hack Learning podcast today
Glad you are stopping by Glad we got to meet this past weekend at
A2: Wanting standardized outcomes that fit our standardized tests
What are some specific ways that you help facilitate the learning?
Dean from Hamilton here. A2 - The dreaded TTWWADI (That’s the way we've always done it)
A2: The amount of testing. Fear of evaluations and test scores.
A2: School schedules... can't go/get deep on mine...
A2: state testing, worrying about gpa and time to teach it awesome instead of to be a good test taker
especially when we know our students are standardized
A2: Limited resources, testing, possible chaos
A2: Time, the amount of standards, rigid schedule each day. Need to be creative with choice so Ss have a little say.
Greg from Zeeland. MS principal.
A2 it's tough to give up control and easy to imagine worst possible scenario
A2: Fear. It's scary to yield control, especially to youth who are often perceived as "immature" or "unprepared" to wield it
A1 I feel choice is so important, but I do have some Ss that struggle with that freedom, sometimes they need it narrowed down.
It's tough for a teacher (especially a new one) to give up control and trust that learning will happen
A2 we (ts) can be control FREAKS!
A2: Teachers may focus on Ss meeting the benchmarks and standards and do not feel there is time to give students this freedom.
A2 Fear that they did not 'cover' everthing if Ss have too much choice and voice in topics. Or they don't "look" like Ts if evalu.
A2: teachers are worried about fulfilling the state standards, which limits what they do in their classrooms.
A2: Diversity in the curriculum you teach
What role did they play in the "learning target"?
This is a great place to start student ownership. Goal setting is so doable! https://t.co/bEFF1YF6gh
A1 - one of the ways is to assist students in setting their own goals for their education & integrating their interests into those.
Ss=students and Ts=teachers. Thanks for asking. :-)
A2 Also time - it takes more time to do things like self-assessment, lot of front loading to make sure Ss understand and do it right
A2 having to teach to the test, worrying more about high grades as opposed to true progression in the individual
A2: FEAR, control .... Would teachers have jobs if Students realized they control their learning?
Fear of the Pacing Guides :)
A2: I believe that is when you are looking for a specific pathway to a desired outcome. Unless that is math, it seems too mechanical
Agreed!! Their learning becomes their GPS as we guide and recalculate towards the destination! https://t.co/NjEFXGoHFQ
A1: Within the context of the objective, students need to have some choice on where specifically they go with hitting that obj
Q2: We use a school model that is predicated on uniformity, adult needs, compliance, accountability, rank and order
A2. Many teachers like being in control.
A2: I also think there are systemic and institutional constraints that Ts struggle to navigate, through no fault of their own.
Still have projects from (?x) years ago where Ss "owned" their learning from our lit study. Loved their interpretations.
A2: Ts get uncomfortable when things aren't easily quantifiable or controlled
A2. Time, time, and time. Never enough to get through everything, planning, conferring as much as need, meeting standards & goals.
For those of you trying to keep up, we're on Q2! Remember, respond with "Q" and 2 - then your answer and https://t.co/USkhY2dli0
I think not having a variety of choices for students to choose from can prevent teachers and schools
Does this mean our job is to put ourselves out of a job? https://t.co/wUq1QQQ9z5
A2: FEAR, control .... Would teachers have jobs if Students realized they control their learning?
A2: the sooner a student owns their learning the better. It gets really messy the longer it takes.
and standardized testing! Yikes!
A2 As teachers, we love being in control! The unknown of what could result from giving students ownership is nerve-wracking.
A2 It feels out of control, Like the Ss aren't actually learning, but playing instead.
A2: Teachers struggle to facilitate and guide students going in different directions.
A2: The lack of uncertainty that comes with change after doing something one way for so long.
What are some "on-going" projects that you use in the classroom? This could be used during genius hour as well
Thanks for joining tonight! Hoping I get a text from you soon! :)
A2: I think, too, that when folks call go against the status quo, in can make people uncomfortable or upset
A2: Concern (legit) that content won't be covered.
I was told 17 years ago we'd be out of jobs because of online courses...
Yes! We fall into that fear as teachers. We need to stop and do what is right for Ss. It’ll all fall into place.
A2: sometimes it takes times to teach how to own and buy in. This causes change and sometimes change is not always accepted
A2: Thinking K-2 needs large amount of scaffolding&guidelines; however, always impressed with the learning that happens with choice
A2) fear of falling student achievement and pressure from state testing
A2 not giving students many choices in what they learn
A2: the fear that it will get out of hand, that students won't learn the objective, or that your principal will not approve.
Do Ss reference their goals in their work/assignments? Does it lead T/S convos & feedback?
YEAH well online courses don't work if students don't realize they are in control
A2 - Students should always know what they're learning and where they are - and have a system of keeping track of those.
A2 it can be exhausting! it is messy it is out of our control! but are they really learning without it?
A2) it is easier to assign one thing and have students take one assessment. Less unknown.
I run into this in my own classroom. Sts aren't comfy with being in charge of their learning, and Ps aren't either.
A2 The courage to do something different that challenges simply being compliant.
A2 - I believe some teachers don't think that students will own their own learning, "they just want to socialize and play games."
exactly! will they ever figure it out?
A2- many parents fear a different approach and often not worth the headache of defending yourself
What strategies exist to ensure the messiness is not just a mess?
Joe from St Joe happy to connect prepping for maker session tomorrow for METS virtual rally
new doesn’t always mean exciting, even though this process can be life changing!
A2: Some teachers may be reluctant to give up complete control of students' learning
When I mistakenly take ownership away from Ss it's usually due to an over-focus on my goals for the lesson https://t.co/iaJgMxvD2Z
Moving on!
Q2: What prevents teachers and schools from giving their students ownership of their learning?
Ultimately we do Right.... When students realize they can learn on own without guidance: NO need for school
A2 Ts may not know how to implement it, they are used to front of the room lecture style of teaching.
Ts being directly involved?
The process of autonomous learning is when we take different paths, to a desired outcome. That is the desired creativity
When I worry too much about other people getting upset, it usually isn't something I should worry about, right?
It's the uniqueness of those Ss project that made them worth keeping :-) https://t.co/54X6Jy0a0v
Still have projects from (?x) years ago where Ss "owned" their learning from our lit study. Loved their interpretations.
True, but the real problem is that different is often interpreted as not doing our job right.
. Example in reading kids have all different targets and goals based on what they are working on. Some fluency, some retell..
A2: A mistake is to think that control and constraints is the best tactic for achieving the goals you seek.
giving Ss choices is so huge. Hard for us Ts to give up control sometimes but has to happen.
A2 Fear of test data not matching learning going on in the classroom. If I don't teach how we test, will Ss struggle on assessments?
keeping students comfortable while also giving them multiple different ways to own their learning
I think choice is a good place for Ts and Ss to start for this reason.
A2: I often see Ss just parroting objs and not owning them. How can we get them to own their learning when they're T-dependent?
we talk a lot about showing accountability. Ss don’t need to own everything…Ts can a bit.
is neatness enough of a reason not to do it?
Absolutely, but pressure from others when doing something new or outside norm can be uncomfortable enough to prevent it
Great Hack Learning podcast today
I agree, sure, but again, when it's different, many Ps interpret it as the T not doing his/her job.
Mike and Jeff, two of my fav male elem teachers chatting together. Love !
This is a battle that admins have to support their teachers on so Ps understand the soft skills being taught https://t.co/aV7lXByL1c
I agree, sure, but again, when it's different, many Ps interpret it as the T not doing his/her job.
We want to guide as teachers. It is natural. Ss don’t always need total ownership. Co-own :-)
sometimes need to balance, esp with younger Ss, to guide towards targets we know are important.
I'm not saying it has to be neat but what supports can be provided to teachers to help them be effective?
A2 Our own ego, our own fear of risk taking...our kids are capable of amazing things with just a bit of guidance:)
I think every teacher needs a group of colleagues to challenge them, to encourage them, and to support them w/ "new" ideas
A2: it can be a time consuming, daunting...Ts are often in survival mode
Twitter chat tip: Don't worry about keeping up with stream. Respond and connect with 1 or 2 ppl. Can catch archive later
Hudsonville closed tomorrow! ☃day
AWWW! Thx Rachelle we like you too
A2: Time for buy-in and teaching how to do it, some are overwhelmed with the management.
Teachers are going to make mistakes and they have to know that they are supported, even when things go wrong
I agree entirely, but that means admins have to put their jobs on the line for our innovation, and that's scary.
Good point. Student ownership is NOT less work for Ts. Different kind of organization process required, not LESS
I think we need to allow Ts to fail forward in this area it will take time to prefect
I think of the driver’s training car...control is there if we need to take over but Ss have their hands on the wheel.
Yes, Erin. I think some concrete examples of accountability would help teachers.
A2: If we do not eventually allow students to apply what they are learning in meaningful projects, but will deep learning occur?
Q3: Some schools have gone as far as including students in creating school policy and curriculum.
What would be a benefit to this?
So true - I think even more work so you have everything ready for all Ss. Diff pace, level, etc.
Moving to teacher as activator is difficult, many don't like change. It can be easy to slip back into old habits of T in control
I'm Marnie, 1st grade teacher from Middleville
that's exciting...not scary. Innovation is well worth it for this Admin!
Need an English/Spanish teacher? ;)
Hmm - I can say yes to that! Best advice, invite P in and ask them to watch. Let them see you doing your job.
A3) the benefit to this is students would really feel as if they had an ownership of and connection to their school and its policies
A3 Hard to argue with a policy you helped put in place right? :)
A3 One of the finest moments I have ever witnessed was our kids pitching a class to our BOE:)
especially for the younger students. Meet kids where they are at.
how about time to conference with students regularly to keep a finger on the learning's pulse
I always felt I had to prove myself as traditional T first before trying more innovative methods :(
A3: One place Student voice is included is on district reproductive health advisory. Important voice
A3: if everyone has a voice into the policy then the buy in can be bigger
A3: Student motivation would definitely increase!
A3 - Those that have a voice in the rules and policies tend to follow said policies and rules.
Some great examples of student ownership and innovative teaching in 's newest: SCHOOLS ON TRIAL https://t.co/gTGZqR8P1w
A3) I think students are more likely to follow rules and respect the school policies if they helped create them
It also helps create a positive learning culture, one school for everyone, fair rules, etc. .0 https://t.co/Hyr9Sb6L0I
A3) the benefit to this is students would really feel as if they had an ownership of and connection to their school and its policies
Students are responsible for their learning and we are responsible for making the learning dynamic
A3 - When we care what students think and include them, it makes them value school and our role in their learning
A3: Ss are the primary stakeholder. They need to feel valued to be invested.
A3: Recently asked Ss what they want to learn in upcoming unit. Some ideas can't be incorporated,but many can! Ownership of learning
A3: Ss have a voice. Sadly I think they feel as though they don't many times. School is something that "happens to them".
A2: Lots of moving parts (state tests/curriculum/standards/etc) makes it scary to give students more ownership
I think this is true, too, for many, if not most of us. It's the system.
Devil's advocate: my student leaves my class a master of Minecraft but can't read. What then?
A3: giving Ss the opportunity to plan and create their own academic goals gives them the motivation to actually reach them
A3 Ownership, what a great opportunity for those Ss.
A3 - some S would feel ownership in creating curricula - this could be accomplished by letting Ss craft guiding questions
A3: In the SBG world in we practice unpacking standards with Ss. Quite an eye opening experience as a T
A3: It keeps students' voices front and center- for instance, we included students on the hiring committee for our principal search
Yes! Ss help establish class/building "norms" means more buy in/ownership https://t.co/JxN7ctQduJ
A3 - Those that have a voice in the rules and policies tend to follow said policies and rules.
A3: It encourages students to take an active role in their learning, which helps build motivation.
Baby steps. S/he might have left still not able to read anyway. ;)
This is awesome. Such a great idea!
A3 To teach students the power of their voice. Show them we care about their ideas and the large scale difference they can make
A3: Empowerment, building future leaders, different perspective, etc.
If eval tools are used correctly they should be catalysts for inovative Ss centered learning NOT traditional
I can understand that but shouldn’t they have a voice in it. Being heard=feeling ownership.Ts should have the same voice.
A3: hey : what are the benefits to authorizing youth to serve as leaders and decision-makers?
A3: Students can advocate for themselves. Increase participation.
A3: Benefits: increased student interest in learning and sense of worth in school, more positive viewpoint on school
A3: The students feel empowered and can't wait to learn.
A3 for day to day policies, I think student input helps make sure they're heard.
i guess we see "owning their learning" in different lights, while I want student voice and choice, The buffet is limited
A3: Anyone out there having Ss create rubrics? Would love to see examples of this.
Are we talking standards or ability? Kid can read, just not text the "school" way 1/2
A3 As a HS principal, I worked with our kids to create our school expectations: Listen Learn Exert Respect - the kids nailed it:)
A3: Love the way this is stated. To help teach Ss that they do have a voice. https://t.co/TBP7SdrOgy
A3 To teach students the power of their voice. Show them we care about their ideas and the large scale difference they can make
Eval tools are often used to punish, though. It's easy to misuse them, I think.
Q3: Social Contract idea. If Ss create rules and norms for how they should interact with each other, they take it more seriously
I agree! When we believe in a student, they start to believe in themselves
A3 involving Ss in curriculum allows them to better understand why they learn what they do giving them more of a reason to care
I like the point of student worth when given a voice
A3: students have a chance to make real change. If students don't take it seriously it can go down hill real fast.
A3: it's easier to hold people accountable for goals and metrics they set for themselves rather than imposed
Q3 part b: What would be a downfall to this?
Add this to the mix.
A3 higher motivation when given a voice, Ss have some choice in what and how they learn
Family time calls!!! Thanks for including me 'ers have a lovely evening!
A3 it would also give Ss a better understanding into the "why" we teach and do certain things.
A3: it would allow for teachers to tap into students' strengths and passions. However, we need to make sure Ts guide our curriculum
A3: everything of importance benefits. Decisions are better-informed. Ss are more engaged. Ts are more engaged, bcuz Ss are engaged.
A3: developing WE is about giving control. The trick is developing parameters that all can live with.
Not in different lights. I was trying to draw out some specifics to the process (e.g. providing guided choice/buffet)
2/2 MCFT players have frequently read plenty of MCFT text; and maybe 4a min don't hate school
A3: Downfall: time management in the classroom: it is already hard to cover everything for a year, and this would add more.
A3b: Often the only Ss heard are the overly involved. Need to hear from the disenfranchised more.
A3: What a great perspective to give our Ss as well...allow them to see what goes into that process!
A3b The potential that we would not honor their voice:(
A3: Students don't always have the full picture, so they may not understand the importance of certain policies
A3 - At the very least, we could involve students in project ideation around the standards we might be covering.
No school tomorrow! Oh, wait, I'm on a LOA....
Misuse is usually done by the untrained or uncomfortable. Leaders secure in themselves never use that way
A3 Ss may give a fresh perspective and ideas to policy and curriculum, Ss may not be able to change it, maybe they will improve it
A3b: It takes *more* time and intentionality, but should ultimately lead to a better result
A3B: Holes in curriculum, possible lack of making deep connections.
A3b: outmoded teachers become disgruntled, work to undermine and dismantle a more democratic and humane approach to education?
A3 D - balance giving student voice w/ ed best practices, district/state requirements - how do we make sure they line up?
A3 I don't see any downside in allowing the Ss to have a say in and understand what they come to school every day for.
A3b) Sometimes decisions are made b/c of other issues Ss don't need to know. Would be tough to have them in sometimes but not others
A3b: Might only represent the voice of a certain population of students.
I often don’t see the full picture! :-) If I was included in making policy I might understand other things better.
A3: Ss chosen to help w/curr & policy are Ss who are engaged anyway. How do we involve Ss w/curr choices who aren't usually engaged?
A3B: Downfall... Holes in learning, Students deciding certain content might not be needed for their long term goals
I totally agree with this.
BTW thanks for helping me unpack my thinking on this
Q3b) a downfall is that some kids might not take it seriously and not consider policies that would truly help the school
A3B Ss may be unrealistic in what they want to do, may not feel their ideas are valued.
A2: Time constraints are (sadly) usually the main reason when I find myself giving Ss less choice. Looking for ways to give more.
A3b: Downfall: Being able to honor every Ss ideas
A3b: It will most likely be difficult for students to come to a consensus. They have so many different interests.
Awesome to see you here on chat I am luring tonight - got late start!
Aren't there already "holes" in learning? And who's to say they'd be wrong? Ultimately, it is THEIR learning, is it not?
Hi
Carl from Emerald Oz
A3) Ss have an insight of what they do and don't know. they have seen the sequential experience
A3B: We are eating Bosco sticks and candy everyday:)
A3:b it would take time to implement what the Ss planned, there already isn't enough time to teach what they need
Ss have value far beyond FTEs they bring skills, experiences, and insight we don't have
challenging to choose a representative group of S. It is definitely possible- how would we choose what to privilege in S?
challenging to choose a representative group of S. It is definitely possible- how would we choose what to privilege in S?
Super point! https://t.co/a1sUBQX2Hh
A3: Ss chosen to help w/curr & policy are Ss who are engaged anyway. How do we involve Ss w/curr choices who aren't usually engaged?
Ya do what ya gotta do, when the tweets start flyin'!
So true! Great leaders know how to guide others, have trust in them to innovate, and be role models
To prep for this I read an article about Ss who helped to choose their text books. How cool is that?! That is some voice!
part of our job to help them see what is realistic
could take less time in the long run if students don't resent or see their work as unnecessary
A3 have you ever read "Lord of the Flies?"
good point - what works for some Ss might not work for others. How do we make sure to honor all voices?
A3: Would a model work on a large scale? It's not like Ss HAVE to be involved in policy making. https://t.co/p0cStiz29g
Agreed, not a true issue but in the STANDARDIZED world it is
These are the kids that we usually should be listening to.
Both. Recall that started w/ "Devil's Advocate". I'm interested in specifics of implementing
A3: It's about simply giving them the OPPORTUNITY to have a voice.
Here I sit until the 2300 hour waiting to make a decision on whether we’ll be open or closed tomorrow. Never easy.
A3: I think one of the hardest things to recognize is that none of this can happen over night. It takes time and that's hard for ts.
What better way to learn to be democratic than thru debate and listening and communication!
Don’t be shy!
Q4: What does student ownership of learning look like in your classroom?
Share your successes and failures.
GOOOOOOOO BLLUUUUUUUEEEEEE
you have to find a balance and be comfortable with some messiness. we've come full circle
you might say a continuum
A4: Genius Hour: An hour every Friday is dedicated to student research and creation of a project of their choice. Ss love it!
@ end of week, I ask S to share my strenghts/challenges as a T 4 that week. Then S reflect on their strengths/challenges
@ end of week, I ask S to share my strenghts/challenges as a T 4 that week. Then S reflect on their strengths/challenges
A4: I try to tap into what they want to be when they grow up, and try to find connections in the curriculum to hit those goals
A4: When in the classroom I use to let me student choose the reading/article they wanted to complete the assignment.
A4 One of my fav activities - ask Ss what they like about your classroom & what they would change. And actually listen w/ open mind
A4: A modified version of SBG helped Ss own what they knew and what they didn't b/c they could clearly see and verbalize it
A4: Student-led conversations, classroom jobs, self-assessments.
We're on Q4 What does student ownership of learning look like in your classroom?
Share your successes and failures.
We're on Q4 What does student ownership of learning look like in your classroom?
Share your successes and failures.
has it always gone well for you? I know some that struggle. Would love to hear your advice.
A4: Ss get 30 min a day of choice time in 2nd grade. They choose what type of literacy activity they want to do.
Isn't it odd that Genius Hour is limited to one hour each week? What would it be like if it were Genius All-the-Time?
A4 Very powerful for me - used Google Forms for self-assessment this year w/ 5th graders. They were almost always spot on
A4 all students raising their hands to answer questions & excitement to present or share what they have learned!
A4 one example of giving students ownership of their learning I've used is providing students with options for homework assignments
A4 Best mem was having 7th graders write own Declaration of Independence - me getting called to princ office 4 encouraging rebellion
A4) Students can input the method by which they work, suggest what is not working for them. Open communication based on care
What are your thoughts on why Ss may struggle with the freedom of Genius Hour?
A4: In feature article study, students choose something to write about that they are an expert on to teach others
A4: A lot of PBL. WC Ss create sessions about wrtng to help ms Ss transition to hs- they design, promote, & deliver sessions
A4: For me, choice of how & where to work. Not perfect, but better than nothing. Mult. options for test rev https://t.co/AYmyMaNtPU
A4) My students track their progress of standard achievement & create study guides based on their shortcomings.
young Ts (and experienced) need to see admin supporting "less traditional" approaches b4 they will even try it
Often times those Ss have been neglected and overlooked for so long...
I love this, especially for Spanish! https://t.co/WqjOZ5dQOK
A4) My students track their progress of standard achievement & create study guides based on their shortcomings.
A4 when they say "can I?" And I say "if you feel it works for you, good idea "
A4: Students actively/collaboratively creating authentic representations or models of their own understanding & meaning making
A4: Ss had the opportunity to research careers & share their learning in a blog. Freedom to choose motivated some, but not all.
or have learned to play the game
A4: I own what the Ss are learning about, they own how to learn about it and from which angle they want to learn from.
A4 let Ss design the classroom, it's their space just as much (if not more) than yours! Shouldn't it be a place they're comfortable?
It isn't always the big things! Start with one way Ss have choice. Where and how to work can be 1st step https://t.co/sy7Ph8PtPV
A4: For me, choice of how & where to work. Not perfect, but better than nothing. Mult. options for test rev https://t.co/AYmyMaNtPU
A4: I hope to use 20Time in my classroom!Gives Ss the choice to learn how they want! +, some of the best ideas come from it.
that should be carved on a wall somewhere
I like I will be using this! I like the way it's phrased!
checking in late... anyone have the smore?
A4: Success: menus of options within a context. Failure: Not providing clear expectations.
A4: Powerful for me was letting Ss prove to me that they had mastered a concept in their own way for re-takes.
A4: I assign some homework to be due on Friday. I give it to my 3rd graders on Monday, while they can complete it at their pace
it isn't easy to listen to their critiques. But I think it was what helped me grow the most as a teacher
Brandon trying to check-in from Florida, but Sprint isn't cooperating. At least it's not snowing? https://t.co/uCkFEFhzV0
Yes. Or u just come to a point...a breakdown to breakthrough. A time when learning really becomes most imp.
A4: We'll always have failures - as long as we learn from them... then good things will happen -
https://t.co/6XbY02Pug2
A4: What if we had choice time every day or week in K-12 schools? Small "Kindergarten" moments for everyone!
A4 opened ended projects instead of worksheets, flipped lessons, , choice in seating
A4: May sound simplistic but whenever Ss engaged in authentic/academic peer conversations. Good talk is "owned"
A4: For 2nd gr Ss share every Monday what they worked on in choice time the week before. Accountability!
I really want to do more PBL's. Where are some great resources for these that you know of?
Amen! Heck, let them have a say in developing a rubric. They'll ask why ALL their teachers don't do it. https://t.co/PwTSzC04eU
It isn't always the big things! Start with one way Ss have choice. Where and how to work can be 1st step https://t.co/sy7Ph8PtPV
A4: For me, choice of how & where to work. Not perfect, but better than nothing. Mult. options for test rev https://t.co/AYmyMaNtPU
all ways here to remind us it doesn't have to be lofty thx Kit
I'm lurking. I'm an EduConsultant.
PhineasAndFerb is more interesting right now.
I hear that a lot. Sometimes it helps to make them answer a ?. They can develop the ?, but it keeps a focus.
so true! Implemented flexible seating this yr and it was their fav part of the classroom
A4 at a very basic level, trying to let students pick apps to complete IEP goals practice with
A4: STEM activities are great for giving ownership.Ss create & problem solve. No right/wrong just learning.
Value to structure. I also think Ss haven't exp'd freedom, so they're not sure what to do!
OR give the project some authenticity. Who are they doing this for. Give them a mentor.
A4: I have failed when I've not contextualized and provided rationale for why it is important for them to own it.
A4: Personal choice in goal setting is always a success.
A4:my students have a lot of choice during our reading time. They have a job or task and once they have finished they have choice.
A4: Ss have choice in seating, celebrations, brain breaks, jobs, Daily 5, math stations. We discuss how things are going often.
In my class, their one criteria was to create something to help them, their class, or the world to guide them
Q5: What strategies or procedures would Ss need to take ownership of their learning?
What are some educational choices that you use in your classroom? Like menus?
A1: Ss are engaged & find intrinsic value & motivation for learning. Self-reflection based on SMART goals. https://t.co/Gzc8amePNz
Lets get started!
Q1: What does “Giving Students Ownership of Learning” mean? Define it.
I think schools often stifle the innate ability to self-direct, resulting in paralysis
A4 My 5th Grders are incharge of technology in projector, laptop hookup, reflector, iPad sharing apps
A4: I think genius hour is a great concept but I feel like there isn't enough time to get to the content I need to teach.
A4: I give my students freedom to work wherever they would like, as long as they are being productive. If not, they go back to desk
Goals are huge! They like to have that ending point to reach for.
yep. It was hard for them to come up with own ideas.
A5 A lot more discussions/conferring w/ Ss. Get their buy-in, help them set goals & see why they're #1 member of their edu team
A5: Like says in NOW YOU SEE IT, Ss would need to unlearn what they've learned about hierarchy and obedience
A5: Clear expectations for sure. Let them know how you expect them to use their time, give options and models, etc
A4: for those of u that have a genius hour, How do u have the time?
A5 not sure if this fits in here but we use to post examples of our learning, I let Ss post what they want.
I love ! If I was back in the classroom, I'd use it every day to let Ss show evidence of learning! https://t.co/28FaEv0Or6
A5 not sure if this fits in here but we use to post examples of our learning, I let Ss post what they want.
A5: Ss need to be taught at the start of the year what it looks like b/c most are stuck on Tch telling what to do.
A5: We need to make students active participants in their learning, starting with expressing what they want to learn.
A2: Standardized testing, irrelevant/out of touch curriculum & lessons, lack of support from school & home https://t.co/cFR8hP7IV1
Moving on!
Q2: What prevents teachers and schools from giving their students ownership of their learning?
A5: many need scaffolding and guidance/coaching because it isn't easy to take ownership of learning
A5) it's important for students to take responsibility for their actions & recognize that their choices have an effect on learning
Yes! 100% agree. Sadly, that's the default. S ownership needs to be the rule, not the exception. https://t.co/ZFVLN5A3JZ
A5: Ss need to be taught at the start of the year what it looks like b/c most are stuck on Tch telling what to do.
I made the time. You wouldn't believe how many standards are covered during Genius Hour!
"why expect them to know how to make decisions when they're never given opp's?" -
if you want to see a behavior ...... teach that behavior!
A5: clear targets, progress tracker, collaboration time with classmates to share ideas and wonderings, quality feedback
Glad you are chiming in for Love seeing more Tchs here! (+ snow day tomorrow! yeah)
One of my favorite quotes of the movie. https://t.co/23L9JiD04k
"why expect them to know how to make decisions when they're never given opp's?" -
A5: Ss need to be able to HONESTLY self reflect on what they've learned & can/can't do. They're usually spot on or too critical.
A4: Fail:Gave choices for alternative bk reports: creative results, but some barely shared the bk. Need to give basic expectations.
Ok guys give it all you’ve got!
Q6: Share some tips/tricks/tools to make student ownership of learning work in a classroom.
A5: teaching self-monitoring to ensure Ss would manage their time, stay focused, and get their work done without set limits.
So simple and important...and I overlooked it so many times. https://t.co/cY2oHJjnKO
if you want to see a behavior ...... teach that behavior!
You got it - even how to pick up trash & push chairs in. Sad to say, we practice that in 8th grade!
A5 Need to share basic procedures and options for Ss to pick from in order to guide their choice & explain their IEP goals to them
A3: Adds perspective. Students feel more invested when given choice & voice. Simplify/streamline plans. https://t.co/jBIHDr7rmv
Q3: Some schools have gone as far as including students in creating school policy and curriculum.
What would be a benefit to this?
A5 students actively participating in class, wanting to answer questions, feeling confidence in their opinions and answers
A5 And lots of modeling. Set goals for yourself, share w/ Ss. Let them see you fail/succeed, persevere, learn something new
Agreed. Also need to understand what knowledge they bring into the classroom and appreciate that
A5 I am a huge believer in flexible learning spaces to change adult tendencies for control and encourage S choice
A5: Ts need to have high expectations for their Ss, and Ss need to have determination and motivation.
A6: Model perseverance, imagination, creativity, and play.
Need to get into more classrooms & show how Ss ownership, Ss choice can be done right! Or invite them into our clrm.
A5: Ss need a culture of being able to take control. Ss in a culture of doing the work for them will struggle with ownership
A6: Ss keep track of what they’ve done for choice time in the calendar app on the iPad. They also are responsible for sharing it.
A4: StudentOwnership? Nonsense. I'm too busy focusing on GrowthMindset. Ss have2️⃣learn everything is MINE+need to ASK4️⃣ MY things
We use everyday! Students love it, parents love it, and I love it!! Great way to document and share learning.
A6 Invest time in getting to know your Ss. They won't take ownership if they feel you don't care, too. Relationship building is key!
A6) Write curriculum based on outcomes and negotiate with students on what content they will use to meet the outcomes
A6 brain breaks every 20 minutes. students stand up and get their blood pumping. A sleepy student is not willing to learn!
A6: I loved using to model how to think. Kids then wondered, thought, & processed aloud. Very cool!
Starts w/ digging into prior knowledge (what have your Ts expected in the past in an essay), & then on to specifics.
How do we make students active participants in their learning?
A6 - Start small. Try having S's unpack a single standard with you to start. Ask "What does it looks like to be proficient?”
And that culture is created by us
This! Relationships are THE #1 most important thing. W/o it, everything else it moot, IMHO! https://t.co/qhanZ4BEZ1
A6 Invest time in getting to know your Ss. They won't take ownership if they feel you don't care, too. Relationship building is key!
A6: student-oriented questions
Use and they automatically have a calendar feed!
A6: there is nobody better than in helping youth and adults collaborate, share power, learn, and grow
A6: Give list of choices, some for high level, some for low level, some that all can find success.
great point. showed me that it's not personal they will do it if you show them
A6: Here is something good that was a result of student choice. Student designed Media Center. https://t.co/850bIytsz1
I would save the fact that they're making a rubric until the conversation is over.
A6: I had my Ss redesign our classroom for what they thought would work best. We talked about movement/fidgeting a lot!
When we were reimagining library in former position Ss use design app to choose furniture and create spaces.
A6: develop a positive relationship with your Ss and keep track of all of their choices, realize what interests them.
A6: sell the why, create the space and let go/step away/trust/believe/support
A6: In Genius Hour, it helped to set 1 guideline of creating something that HELPS the student, class, or world to guide thinking.
A6: Give Ss the opportunity to teach each other-Ss will actually be in control of an entire class period where they teach the lesson
A6 trust, clear expectations, freedom. Fair consequences for "less than" trustworthy behavior. I like to point out the awesomeness!
A5: Ss need to do TONs of wksts, work quietly at their seats, never 💬unless💬to, and sit perfectly still. Like they've been petrified✨
A6: Gotta forget about the product YOU have in mind and be willing to accept what THEY come up with. So hard for me!
A6 I have a list of multimedia tools we know and use. Ss are free to choose the tool they use to complete any assignment.
Yes! We use everyday…didn’t think of using it for that! Love it. :-) See you soon.
A3: Student choice/voice whenever possible, students asked to self-reflect frequently, class brainstorming. https://t.co/vCD0ok53oP
Don’t be shy!
Q4: What does student ownership of learning look like in your classroom?
Share your successes and failures.
A6: I give students work breaks after every lesson. These last two minutes and students have that time to take a quick break
Love the list idea. Such a nice way to springboard their creativities AND give choice. https://t.co/EG77XxIues
A6 I have a list of multimedia tools we know and use. Ss are free to choose the tool they use to complete any assignment.
A6b the expectations are the same for all, if you can meet them who cares what tools you used
Looking for a multiplayer way to teach and practice basic addition skills? Download Snowman Bump! https://t.co/NHEKFgorxE
Thank You crew for a great chat:)
Well another hour of your life has been spent with the awesome people. Thanks so much for participating! Have a great week folks.
T summer school choice for Ss. They could choose a mini-lesson on something that didn't do well during year & teach class
UGH me too! I want perfection! LOL. They are 8 ANN!
Yes Ts and ss relationships are key to bring out the best. They will work their butt off for someone they know has their back
Thanks to for leading the chat this evening, and thanks to the community for helping choose the topic!
A6: also, everyone would be wise to check out the chat hosted by on Mondays at 830pm EST. Really great stuff!
Thank you for a great chat! https://t.co/6BN2S3T6hy
Thanks to for leading the chat this evening, and thanks to the community for helping choose the topic!
Final tips: Follow those in the chat to build your & look for to look at archive for full conversation
Great chat tonight, thanks to all who voted for the topic! Hope everyone stays warm tonight, I'm going to enjoy my snow day tom!
Love it! Require them to create something! Maybe add a authentic audience presentation component to really rock it!
Would love to know what you think of chat Time flies in these chats!
It is all about the process that results in the product
Thanks for a great chat! always goes by so fast! See you soon.
Enjoy your snow day, or your Thursday if you don't have a snow day! Thanks , great job!
Any MS ELA Ts want to connect with classes for March Reading month? Contact me! Putting list together tomorrow
Thanks for the engaging chat full of ideas! = 😎
have to admit first sight I thought you tweeted about , one of my dad's favorite shows
